Exhibition puts spotlight on coercive behaviour

The experiences of domestic abuse survivors have informed an exhibition about coercive and controlling behaviour.

Photographer Gemma Briggs created a series of images showing ordinary domestic settings as crime scenes.

Ms Briggs said: "The aim of these photographs is to show evidence of some of the methods used by perpetrators and explore the effects that they have on victims."

The exhibition will be open to the public at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery from 1 to 28 March.

The exhibition, shown in partnership with the West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership, will highlight the "subtle and hidden crime of coercive or controlling behaviour".

It aims to raise awareness and help people identify warning signs in their own relationships or those of others.

Ms Briggs said: "Coercive or controlling behaviour is a widespread and extremely damaging form of abuse. It is also very often hidden.

"It [the exhibit] is informed by interviews with victims and research carried out over two years."

David Smith, cabinet member for planning and communities at West Northamptonshire Council, said it was a "powerful and necessary" exploration of a form of domestic abuse that often went unnoticed.

"By bringing these experiences to light, we hope to raise awareness, encourage conversation, and ensure that those affected know that support is available," he said.

If you have been affected by this story or would like support then you can find organisations which offer help and information at the BBC Action Line.

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